If you enjoyed the excellent strategy game Seven Kingdoms then I really don't need to sell this enhanced version of the history sim to you. This time around, it's got more nationalities, completely new scenarios (15 more than last time), new gods, and an extra-devastating Advanced Weapon.

After an impressive introductory sequence, you can choose to start a single- or multiplayer game, look through an encyclopedia chock full of relevant information and pictures dealing with different aspects of the game, or view the Hall Of Fame of successful Empire Builders. There is also a comprehensive 13-lesson tutorial that covers all of the topics you will need to master to get the most out of the game.

As before, you can customize various aspects of the game. You can choose your nationality, your game color, the number of kingdoms the computer will control, the difficulty level, the terrain type, and the size of the land mass. The main game screen combines the gameplay area with information screens, stock controls, a date display, and a menu button.

As in other strategy simulations of this sort, the point of the game is to take over various areas of the world. In addition to doing battle with other cultures, you need to train your armies, mine for resources, build factories, raise taxes, create inns and harbors, carry out research in your Tower of Science, and produce weapons in a war factory. You also have the opportunity to create military and trading alliances and to perform espionage and counter espionage.

The graphics of Seven Kingdoms Ancient Adversaries are up to scratch for contemporary games. Everything is still shown in miniature but is still easily recognizable, with animation that fits in perfectly with the mood of the game. Those who enjoy the challenge of empire building won't be disappointed with the experience and pleasure offered here. It's a comprehensive game that rewards the effort taken in making the proper preparations.